Pomeroy Travel Guide

Explore the small town of Pomeroy, Washington and discover its cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, local food and drinks, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Pomeroy

Pomeroy is a small town nestled in the heart of the Palouse region in southeastern Washington. With a population of just over a thousand people, it offers visitors a glimpse into a simpler way of life. The town is best known for its agricultural heritage, friendly locals, and beautiful outdoor scenery.

List of Places to Visit in Pomeroy

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Pomeroy is home to several historical landmarks that offer visitors a chance to learn about the town’s rich history. Start your journey at the Garfield County Museum and Historical Society, which showcases the area’s agricultural heritage. Visitors can learn about the county’s geology, Native American history, and the impact of early settlers on the region.

Other must-see historical attractions include the Pataha Flour Mill, the oldest working mill in the state of Washington, and the Klemgard Park Arboretum, where visitors can take leisurely walks amidst over 1,200 varieties of trees and shrubs.

Natural Attractions of Pomeroy: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pomeroy boasts an abundance of natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Hikers will find the nearby Umatilla National Forest a paradise with over 1.4 million acres of wilderness. The forest contains numerous hiking trails that are perfect for all skill levels. You can also visit the Palouse Falls State Park, which offers stunning views of one of the most beautiful waterfalls in America.

Additionally, the Dayton Historic Depot Park offers scenic bike journeys. This scenic route will take you through some of the area’s most beautiful landscapes and offers a chance for a leisurely ride through the heart of Palouse.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pomeroy

Hiking and biking are popular outdoor activities in Pomeroy. The area features a variety of trails that offer breathtaking views of the town’s natural scenery. Hikers can try out the Big Canyon Trail, which is a moderate hike that is 1.5 miles in length, while bikers can enjoy the Dayton Historic Depot Park region’s scenic ride.

Best Things to Do in Pomeroy: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, Pomeroy offers a range of other exciting activities to choose from. Visitors can visit the nearby Palouse Observatory to learn about the stars or attend a concert or performance at the historic Liberty Theater. You can also try your luck fishing in one of the nearby fishing spots, such as the Palouse River, or hunting in historic game reserves.

Guided tours are also available for visitors interested in learning more about the town’s history or visiting wineries in the area. The tours can range from cultural, historical, or economic interest areas.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pomeroy

Day 1: Visit the Garfield County Museum and Historical Society, Klemgard Park Arboretum, and the Palouse Wind Farm.

Day 2: Go hiking in the Umatilla National Forest for a half day, then explore downtown Pomeroy in the afternoon.

Day 3: Drive to the Dayton Historic Depot Park for a mountain bike ride in the morning, followed by lunch at the Nona’s restaurant, and end your day with a visit to the Pataha Flour Mill.

Day 4: Try out fishing spots in Garfield County or go hunting at the Bird-Six Feathers Bird Hunting Reserve.

Day 5: Head to the Liberty Theater for a stage performance or attend a concert at the Hay J’s Performing Arts Center.

Day 6: Go on the rolling hills scenic drive, a guided tour that showcases the town’s agricultural heritage.

Day 7: End your trip with a visit to the Palouse Falls and the Palouse Observatory.

Food and Drink Scene of Pomeroy

Must-Try Dishes

Pomeroy’s food scene reflects the town’s farming background. Locally-sourced ingredients are key, and the area offers a farm-to-table approach to its cuisine. Try having delicacies such as elk burgers, locally sourced steaks, and top-shelf regional wines.

Local Beverages

Walla Walla Valley and Lewiston-Clarkston Valley are two wine regions located within easy reach of Pomeroy. The region is also known for producing excellent beer and spirits in Washington State and other Pacific Northwest locations.

Where to Stay in Pomeroy: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There is a wide variety of accommodations available in Pomeroy, with options that cater to every preference and budget. Visitors can choose from hotels, motels, resorts, bed, and breakfasts, and campgrounds. For those looking for an authentic Palouse experience, renting a cabin or farmhouse could offer a unique stay. It is recommended to book as early as possible to avoid any inconvenience.

What to Buy in Pomeroy: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to souvenirs to bring home, Pomeroy is home to several gift shops that offer locally made products. Some local products to consider include honey, craft spirits, regional wines, locally canned preserves, and handmade products. Local farmers’ markets are commonly open during the growing season, offering fresh produce and handmade crafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Pomeroy

Pomeroy is a small town, and the locals can be characterized by their kindness, warmth, and willingness to lend a helping hand. Visitors should expect to experience a slower pace of life and a genuine love of the outdoors.

Best Time to Visit Pomeroy

The best time to visit Pomeroy is in the summertime, from May to September, when the weather is sunny and warm, the landscapes are green and alive, and most activities, attractions, and tours are open.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pomeroy

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and cultural attractions
  • Enjoy the natural beauty of the region
  • Try local specialty foods
  • Bring a reusable water bottle and a pair of comfortable shoes for activities like hiking and biking.

Don’t:

  • Litter the area, please use dustbins or carry a bag with you
  • Disrupt the local wildlife and habitats
  • Make animal noises while hunting
  • Participate in risk-taking activities without taking proper safety measures.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pomeroy

Pomeroy is a safe place to visit, and visitors should take basic precautions to ensure their safety. These could include locking vehicles, taking measures to avoid engaging in any unsafe activities, and keeping an eye on personal belongings.

Health in Pomeroy

The area surrounding Pomeroy is known for its clean air, pure water sources, and fresh outdoor scenery. Visitors should note to take standard health precautions, including drinking lots of water and using sunscreen. For any medical needs, the town has a hospital as well as a range of other medical facilities.

Getting to Pomeroy: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pomeroy

The closest commercial airport to Pomeroy is the Lewiston-Nez Perce County Regional Airport in Idaho, a 1-hour drive. The Spokane International Airport, in Spokane, is another option, which is 2 hours drive from Pomeroy.

Bus Stations Near Pomeroy

There are regional bus and shuttle services that connect to Pomeroy, but they are limited. The Greyhound bus service stops at Lewiston, Washington, which has a bus service to Pomeroy.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a private car or take a taxi to reach the town, with easy roadways from other Pacific Northwest towns. Lyft or Uber services are available, although these ride-sharing networks are subject to seasonal availability and location convenience.

How to Get Around in Pomeroy

Getting around town is relatively easy, with several options available, including walking, driving, cycling, or hitchhiking. The walking routes are scenic and safe, whereas renting a car would be a more convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas of Garfield County.

Where to Go Next from Pomeroy: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

For those looking to extend their Pacific Northwest trip beyond Pomeroy, there are several options available. The nearby city of Walla Walla offers cultural attractions, vineyards, and wine tasting, while the Lewis-Clark Valley provides outdoor adventures such as kayaking and whitewater rafting on the Snake River.

Conclusion

Pomeroy might be a small town, but it has a big heart and is a gem waiting to be discovered in the Pacific Northwest. The town visitors will be captivated by its friendly locals, natural beauty, local culture, and historic landmarks. Visitors should come with an open mind to embrace the slower pace of life and discover everything that Pomeroy has to offer.

Garfield County Courthouse in Pomeroy is on the National Register of Historic Places Garfield County Courthouse in Pomeroy is on the National Register of Historic Places